Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and discover the beauty of Wisconsin’s great outdoors! With countless campgrounds to choose from, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best campgrounds in Wisconsin to help you plan your next adventure. Pack your camping gear, and let’s explore the Badger State!
- Devil’s Lake State ParkNestled in the Baraboo Hills, Devil’s Lake State Park is Wisconsin’s most popular state park. The park boasts over 400 campsites, 29 miles of hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters for swimming and kayaking.
- Apostle Islands National LakeshoreThe Apostle Islands National Lakeshore features 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland coast on Lake Superior. Camp on one of the islands and enjoy pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and spectacular sea caves.
- Peninsula State ParkLocated on the Door County peninsula, this park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and swimming. Don’t miss the chance to climb the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse for breathtaking views.
- Mirror Lake State ParkJust three miles from Wisconsin Dells, Mirror Lake State Park is a serene escape from the tourist crowds. The park offers wooded campsites, canoe rentals, and scenic trails perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
- High Cliff State ParkSituated on the eastern shore of Lake Winnebago, High Cliff State Park is known for its stunning limestone cliffs and panoramic views. Enjoy family-friendly activities such as camping, hiking, and swimming at the beach.
- Kettle Moraine State ForestDivided into northern and southern units, Kettle Moraine State Forest offers a variety of camping options, including reservable campsites and backpacking shelters. Explore the 1,200-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail and discover Wisconsin’s unique glacial landscape.
- Perrot State ParkPerrot State Park, located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Trempealeau rivers, offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Don’t miss the chance to hike up Brady’s Bluff for incredible views of the river valley.
- Governor Dodge State ParkWith over 5,000 acres, Governor Dodge State Park is one of the largest state parks in Wisconsin. Enjoy two lakes, miles of hiking and equestrian trails, and a variety of camping options, including group and backpacking sites.
- Newport State ParkAs Wisconsin’s only designated wilderness park, Newport State Park offers a true backcountry camping experience. Explore 30 miles of hiking trails, pristine Lake Michigan shoreline, and stunning night skies at this International Dark Sky Park.
- Wyalusing State Park Perched atop 500-foot bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, Wyalusing State Park offers incredible views and a range of recreational activities. Choose from family-friendly campsites or hike-in backpacking sites and explore the park’s extensive trail system, Native American burial mounds, and canoeing opportunities.
- Buckhorn State Park If you’ve ever dreamed of camping on a peninsula with water on three sides, Buckhorn State Park is the place for you. Located on the Castle Rock Lake, this park offers cart-in campsites for those who don’t mind a little extra work for a lot of extra privacy.
- Big Foot Beach State ParkDespite its name, you won’t find any Sasquatches lurking at Big Foot Beach State Park. Instead, you’ll discover a beautiful beach on Geneva Lake and well-wooded campsites perfect for campfire stories about the elusive Bigfoot.
- Harrington Beach State ParkHarrington Beach State Park offers a mile of Lake Michigan shoreline and a curious quarry lake for those who prefer freshwater adventures. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the friendly ghost of a former quarry worker!
- Roche-A-Cri State ParkAt Roche-A-Cri State Park, you can climb a 300-foot rock outcropping and etch your name next to ancient Native American petroglyphs. Just kidding! Please don’t do that. Instead, admire the historic artwork and enjoy the stunning views from atop the mound.
- Council Grounds State ParkIf you’re seeking world peace or just a peaceful weekend, Council Grounds State Park is the perfect spot. Nestled along the Wisconsin River, this park offers picturesque campsites, great fishing, and a canoe trail perfect for pondering life’s big questions.
- Merrick State ParkMerrick State Park is ideal for campers who love slumber parties with mosquitoes. But don’t let that scare you! Bring your bug spray and enjoy scenic river views, canoeing, and excellent fishing opportunities.
- Willow River State ParkIf you’ve ever wanted to camp near a 45-foot waterfall, Willow River State Park is calling your name. Enjoy the thunderous sound of water as it lulls you to sleep or wakes you up early to seize the day – your choice!
- Richard Bong State Recreation AreaNo, this park isn’t named after that kind of bong. Instead, it honors aviator Richard Bong. With 4,515 acres of recreational land, this park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, fishing, and pretending they’re piloting a WWII fighter plane.
- Amnicon Falls State ParkAmnicon Falls State Park is home to four waterfalls, making it the perfect destination for campers who love chasing waterfalls. Ignore TLC’s advice and spend your days exploring these beautiful cascades.
- Rib Mountain State ParkForget the stair climber at the gym and hike to the top of Rib Mountain instead. With one of the highest peaks in Wisconsin, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views.
- Copper Falls State Park Get your daily dose of iron and copper at Copper Falls State Park – metaphorically speaking, of course. With ancient lava flows, deep gorges, and dramatic waterfalls, this park is perfect for campers who appreciate geology and picturesque landscapes.
- Hartman Creek State Park Hartman Creek State Park is the unofficial Club Med for deer. With abundant wildlife, tranquil lakes, and excellent hiking trails, you’ll find yourself at one with nature and possibly sharing a campfire with Bambi.
- Point Beach State Forest Point Beach State Forest is like a beach vacation without the sunburn and sandy swimsuits. This park offers beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, wooded campsites, and a whimsical lighthouse rumored to be haunted by a friendly ghost.
- Rock Island State Park For the ultimate adventure, head to Rock Island State Park, where you’ll need to take two ferries just to get there! With vehicle-free roads, this park offers a serene escape for those who appreciate peace, quiet, and the occasional spooky shipwreck.
- Kohler-Andrae State Park If you’ve ever wanted to camp on the moon, Kohler-Andrae State Park is the next best thing – without the pesky lack of oxygen. With unique sand dunes, a beautiful beach, and picturesque boardwalks, this park offers an out-of-this-world experience.
These 25 campgrounds in Wisconsin will have you laughing, exploring, and enjoying the great outdoors. From ghostly encounters to geological wonders, there’s something for everyone in the Badger State. So gather your friends, family, or even a friendly Sasquatch, and embark on a Wisconsin camping adventure you won’t soon forget!
Good luck, and happy camping!
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